Death Valley sounds like an unlikely place for waterfalls, but near Panamint Springs at the western edge of the national park, Darwin Falls flows year-round. The spring-fed falls consist of two main drops, an upper and a lower falls. In between is a grotto with a few small waterfalls. The falls are accessible by a moderate 1-mile hike, though reaching the upper falls from the lower falls will take a hearty uphill climb. To avoid hiking in uncomfortably warm weather, wait until late October to trek to the falls. Spring is also a good time to visit, as the park's wildflowers usually start to bloom in March. More info: www.nps.gov/deva/planyourvisit/panamintspringsarea.htm -- Jason La, Los Angeles Times